A multi-track finite element model was developed to simulate melt pool contours and the temperature field during selective laser melting (SLM) of 316L stainless steel powder under different scanning strategies. Considering

the thermophysical properties changes with temperature and the influence of latent heat of phase. The simulated temperature field was compared with experimental measurements results. Furthermore

the presented results established a correlation between the scanning path and the microstructure of SLM specimens. The simulation results showed that as the scanning tracks increase

the maximum temperature of melt pool rises slightly. The molten pool contains a large number of columnar crystals that grow vertically along the direction of the maximum temperature gradient. In addition

microscopic defects are more likely to occur at the junction between scanning islands

where the heat and stress are concentrated. Besides

the scanning strategy affects the microstructure and microhardness of SLM parts

and the part under the spiral strategy had finer grains and higher Vicker hardness than that formed under spiral-island strategy.